The Dangers of Smoke

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that smoke and soot are not the same things? While a fire is burning, smoke is created through incomplete combustion. Incomplete combustion means there is not enough oxygen to burn the fuel completely. Leftover particles of carbon, tar, oils, and ash are released into the air, creating smoke that we can see. 

The primary cause of death for victims of indoor fires is smoke inhalation. Rather than being consumed by the fire itself, nearly 75% of victims die because of smoke inhalation. In order to prevent large amounts of smoke inhalation, it is important to stay low to the ground. Hot air rises in a structure while it is burning, which brings smoke up with it. In a typical structure fire, most evidence of smoke damage is found higher up on the walls and ceilings. Smoke will usually rise toward the ceiling, then be forced towards the doorways and air ducts and into other rooms. As smoke travels throughout a structure, it deposits residue (known as soot) on other materials. These materials can include the belongings in your home.

If you have questions about smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Highland Village at (940) 241-3434.